Beer making 101

20 of us were educated and entertained by Mr. Norman Gladstone, a retired professional brew master; who has worked in Australia, South Africa, the UK, and Canada.  For some years he was a senior brew master with Molsons.  

Norman gave us a very in-depth lecture on the techniques and technology of brewing beer commercially.  This was followed by a very enjoyable survey of lagers and ales, with focus on the classics.  

Here are some fun facts we learned:

1. It is best to serve cold beer in a warm/room-temperature glass 
2. Beer served too cold or containing too high alcohol masks flavour
3. Local craft beer-makers may make a big deal about hops, but yeast is the bomb!
4. Flavour, particularly bitterness, is in the foam. Fatty foods are the enemy of foam. 
5. Lager is great for quenching thirst on a hot day; but ales are meant to be enjoyed socially, and are worth talking about.

This was the second in our "brewmaster's tour" series. We can't wait for number three!